The Manitoba-Southwestern Ontario region of Habitat for Humanity has over 10 active chapters that lead building projects in their communities through Habitat's homeownership program.
Many chapters start a new build project every other year. This summer there will be new projects beginning in Manitoba and one in Kenora, Ont.
Executive Director for Manitoba, Jamie Hall says it's still a bit too early in the year to see whether they'll start or complete building, but they have very active chapters in Killarney, Neepawa, Portage la Prairie, and Kenora.
"Volunteers are the heart and soul of these chapter builds," shares Hall. "They are grassroots, local individuals committed to serving families in their community. I want to acknowledge the work happening across the province this year.
"There's nothing more local and grassroots than a Habitat chapter build," shares Hall. "We recently had the honor of recognizing two of our volunteers nationally through Habitat Canada awards in Virden and Portage la Prairie. Typically, a committee of four to eight people holds regular meetings, connects with fundraising and trades in the community, and helps identify the family that will purchase the house under our affordable mortgage program. It's amazing the work they do as volunteers for their community."
Longstanding Virden Chapter Chair, Karen McKinnon, was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal last month. Portage recipient, Betty Jean-Checkley, is a retired teacher who has been involved with Habitat for Humanity since 2008.
Volunteers participating in any Habitat project come with a wide array of skills, whether it be swinging a hammer, helping to paint, or fundraising. An entire community comes together filling in the necessary supports when needed.
"Typically, these committees have someone who's the construction person, someone who's the fundraiser or extrovert, and the organizer who plans events," adds Jamie Hall. "There's also the treasurer who accounts for the funds, ensuring they are raised and spent responsibly. Additionally, there's usually a person involved in family selection, helping to find the family that will receive the house. These committees start with a diverse set of skills but come together to build something beautiful."
Hall says the Killarney Chapter of Habitat for Humanity is hoping to start their build project this summer. They have their building site, now they just need a few more hands to help out with the project. Contact Joanna Friesen in Killarney if you're able to volunteer in any capacity.
(Photos submitted by Habitat for Humanity Manitoba: Virden Chair Karen McKinnon with MP Larry Maguire and with Habitat's Steve Krahn upon receiving her King Charles III Coronation medal from Habitat for Humanity Canada)